Chavanga: They have earned it
EXCLUSIVE: Retired Springbok wing Tonderai Chavhanga got a burning issue off his chest and went head first into the most-spoken about topic when the Springboks lose – quotas.
Chavanga donned the Springbok jersey on four occasions from 2005 to 2008, scoring six tries in the process.
“As far as the blame thing is concerned, I was looking at comments posted on social media. A lot of stuff has to do with ‘we will not get anywhere if there’s quotas’ and stuff like that,” Chavhanga said.
“At the end of the day, we all want the best Springbok side out there every single week. I know it’s important that the Springbok team is reflective of the nation. For me, as a former player of colour, I know what that feels like.
“Players are given an opportunity but it must not be a case of them being handed it, they must earn it. The players that are there, they have earned their right.
“There was an uproar about Bongi [Mbonambi] being named ahead of Malcolm Marx [against Australia]. When it comes to selection, Rassie said he wants to create depth, how then do we get depth? The depth must be tested and the guys must be thrown in the deep end so that they can get that Test experience.
“The quote thing is getting old. I think the black players that are playing have earned their right to be in the squad. It’s just disappointing to see some people who are not recognising that,” he added.
Listen as Anton van Zyl, Morgan Newman and Tonderai Chavhanga discuss this topic and more below:
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